KARACHI:
Despite being at the forefront of the climate crisis, we have largely ignored the threat of climate change. The government’s mismanagement and the public’s negligent attitude will cost the country heavily in the coming years. The increase in vehicular emissions and carbon and other toxic gas emissions from factories is worsening the air quality in most cities.
Earlier in the year, Pakistan experienced record heatwaves and droughts, particularly in Sindh and Balochistan. In Jacobabad temperatures skyrocketed to 50 Celsius. This was followed by heavy rains and glacial outbursts that resulted in devastating floods across the country. Had the government taken timely action to inform people about climate-related emergencies and provided them with the proper apparatus to cope with such a situation, we could have avoided much of the destruction.
Many flood-hit areas are still submerged in water. The government and international humanitarian relief response have been slow, which is not only affecting the flood victims but slowing down the overall process of rebuilding the areas. Instead of haphazardly establishing weak mud houses and frail roads, the government should build climate-resilient infrastructure. In doing so, it must seek the assistance and support of international organisations and Western countries that are primarily responsible for climate change. The people should also cut down on vehicular emissions, avoid deforestation, and plant trees. Everyone needs to act to save the country from future calamities.
Ainee Munir
Lahore
Published in The Express Tribune, December 11th, 2022.
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